Nelly Conus, Head of Operations & Development - Europe

Nelly Conus is a Global R&D leader and Business Development professional with a proven track record in all facets of clinical research management, new drug, and consumer care product development, claim building and substantiation and result reporting within the Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Industries.

She is currently responsible for strategic and operational activity including new business development, market/regional growth, and resource/employee management. Nelly manages European clients throughout many industries (Pharma, Biotech, etc.) including contractual, resourcing and operational activities, and is responsible for scientific and clinical trial activities providing expert and operational supervision for global projects.

 

What advice can you give to colleagues on overcoming hurdles when working on challenging projects?

I find that the best approach is to collaborate with your team or those who will provide good insight and leverage their experience to overcome hurdles. I used to do this myself (not a good approach) but I find that input from others can lead to a clear solution. You should prepare well, and clearly define the issues and expectations. Always be curious (read), never run away from issues, and listen to understand, not to just respond. That said, each project presents its unique challenges and therefore there is never a one-size-fits-all solution.

These four words sum up my overall approach: preparation, collaboration, consensus, and action.

Where do you think women have the best opportunity to contribute to the future of health?

Women are already fully contributing to the future of health and have always been. From looking after the household, caring for sick family members, to now making professional strides such as making up the vast majority of students in medical schools. However, opportunities still exist to contribute more. For instance, women are still under-represented in technical and IT professions and medical specialties like surgery.

There are many variables, such as lack of role models, cultural and traditional values, and many more that contribute to this issue – but I believe the gap to be closing steadily. Women should remain proud to believe and stand for their values and should be recognized for their competences and achievements. I come from a background and area where people, and particularly women, do not flaunt such achievements and seem to think they are never good enough.

I have slowly learned over the years to be proud of my achievements, believe in myself, and accept compliments.